Ion-wind powered boat using a novel wire-dielectric water system

In the era of tightening environmental regulations and fast rising fossil fuel costs, green-energy propelling technologies have been in great demand for the maritime industry. By the electrohydrodynamic propulsion, this work demonstrates the launch of an ion-wind powered boat (iBoat) that offers a novel propeller-free approach with insignificant noise and rather low power consumption. The innovative design of the iBoat includes a conducting wire functioning as the emitter, while the water surface was exploited as the downstream electrode, thus, eliminating the need for the second electrode which is typically essential for the ion wind generation. The proposed ion wind propulsion system can generate a thrust-to-power ratio of 1.45 mN/W using a simple wire-dielectric-water configuration. In the experiment, we successfully launch the iBoat carrying payloads of 120 g with wiring connected to the external power supply system. This novel concept can potentially pave the way for the future development of propeller-free boats with insignificant noise in real-life applications including army and wildlife surveillance missions. [Display omitted] •The first launch of a miniaturized ion-wind powered boat without moving propeller.•Ion-wind thrust generation from a new wire-dielectric-water system.•Simulation model provides insights into the physical mechanism of the novel configuration.•Tuning the ion wind flow by the introduction of dielectric flap and prompt thrust measurement.•Simple configuration, significant noise reduction and relevant power performance compared with conventional EHD systems.